If you’re thinking about renting a home for the first time, make sure you add an alarm system to your list of requirements.

Negotiating rental contracts is important, so take the time to iron out every little detail before adding ink to paper.

Landlords need to take responsibility for re-keying the locks during a tenant change and should also make certain the dwelling is equipped with proper deadbolts, reinforced frames and a full coverage alarm system.

Just as there are responsible landlords who want to supply nothing but the best home security for their tenants, there are those who don’t care about the home’s security shortcomings.

The only way these dwellings are going to be a safe choice is if tenants start requesting good home security as standard equipment in their rental agreements.

Landlords nee to take responsibility for the safety and security of their rental homes.

So if you’re living in a rental and your contract is coming up for renewal, you may want to negotiate an alarm system to help keep you and your family safe. If you’ve been a good tenant, it would definitely be in the best interests of your landlord to grant you your wish.

And if you happen to have one of those landlords who doesn’t like the thought of spending money on an alarm system, shame on them.

Renters have as much right as anyone when it comes to keeping themselves and their families safe in the comfort of their home.

Even if a renter wanted to pay for the installation of their own home security system, they would most likely be looking at a minimum three-year contract.

Alarm companies rely on these three-year contracts to recoup the cost of the installation, equipment and sales commissions.

Most rental contracts are either one year, six months or month-to-month agreements, so it often makes it impossible for a tenant to commit to a long-term agreement.

But take heed: If you’re a renter and concerned about your home security, there are some security companies that offer special packages for renters.

Or you may want to set up your own security system by converting your computer webcam into a spy-cam. You may even be able to set up multiple webcams with certain software programs.

You might want to set up your system to send you a text or e-mail when a camera detects motion.

The beauty of this system is you can log in with a smartphone to see what’s happening in your home while you’re away.

This system is ideal for a smaller, rental apartment, but if you’re thinking of renting a house where you’ll have more area to cover you might want to consider a DIY, low-cost, easy-to-install alarm system that includes the monitoring.

Frank Fourchalk is a security expert with more than 20 years of experience in the business.